Spark Arena

“New Zealand’s First Major P3 Deal”

Spark Arena, formerly Vector Arena, is New Zealand’s first major public-private-partnership deal (P3). The 12,000-seat multi-functional arena is also Auckland’s first state-of-the-art indoor venue capable of hosting events that range from international hockey to entertainment acts, gymnastics, basketball, and netball. As part of the design, Crawford Architects designed the sightlines to enhance the fan’s experience when watching international hockey on a temporary ice sheet.

On behalf of JVM | Lendlease, Crawford led the feasibility studies, master planning, programming, and concept design for a new arena. Crawford’s studies supported JVM’s bid to develop the project and served as the basis for a design-build proposal. JVM won the project, and Crawford Architects was novated to the design-builder and served the project as the design architect. The BOOT proposal, master planning, and urban design were completed in three months.

Crawford worked closely with the Auckland City Council and the indigenous Maori, Ngati Whatua o Orakei to ensure the design and delivery of a landmark building that meets expectations for the site and the community. The design solution has a distinct ‘Auckland’ look and feel. The iconic roof promotes instant recognition and brand legibility.

CLIENT

Auckland City Council

LOCATION

Auckland, NZ

SIZE

12,000-seat

EXPERTISE

P3, Master Planning/ Concept Design, Architecture, Interior Architecture, Brand Activation, Signage & Wayfinding, Stadiums & Arenas, Mixed-Use, Convention, Mixed-Use

Architectural Partner: JMV | Lendlease